How to remove XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware and decrypt .XIAOBA files

What is XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware

XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware is a malicious program designed to encrypt the files of its victims and demand a ransom for decryption. Operating as a crypto virus, this ransomware appends the .XIAOBA extension to the affected files, obscuring their original names by restructuring them into a format like [xiaoba_666@163.com]Encrypted_[random_string].XIAOBA. By utilizing robust encryption algorithms, typically RSA 4096, XIAOBA 2.0 secures the data such that only the decryption key can unlock the content. The hackers behind this malware demand the equivalent of 0.5 Bitcoin, which could amount to thousands of USD, clearly aiming for financial gain. Upon encryption, the ransomware generates a ransom note in the form of an HTML application named HELP_SOS.hta, providing information on how the victim can purchase the decryption tool, and it can be found alongside the encrypted files.

Despite the severe encryption, currently, there are no public decryption tools available for XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware, which poses a significant barrier for those affected. Encryption carried out by such sophisticated ransomware often leaves victims with limited options. Paying the ransom does not guarantee file recovery as cybercriminals might choose not to provide the decryption key even after receiving payment; hence, it is advised against. The only viable solution is a pre-existing backup from safe storage, which can restore your files without paying the ransom. It is crucial to maintain a robust security posture by regularly updating and backing up data on multiple sources. In the absence of a decryptor, recovery primarily relies on ensuring that infections are removed from the system, with assistance from reliable antivirus software, and that unaffected backup data is used to restore operations.

How XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware infects computers

XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware infiltrates computers primarily through phishing and social engineering techniques, masquerading as legitimate content to trick users into downloading malicious files. These files often come bundled with regular-looking archives, executables, or documents, such as PDFs and Microsoft Office files, which can initiate the infection chain upon being opened. Additionally, this ransomware spreads through untrustworthy download channels, including third-party websites, Peer-to-Peer (P2P) networks, and via malicious ads, drive-by downloads, and fake software updates. It can also propagate through backdoor trojans that provide unauthorized access, enabling the ransomware to silently encrypt files. Once inside the system, XIAOBA 2.0 might exploit local network vulnerabilities or connected external storage devices to spread further and encrypt additional data. This multifaceted approach makes it essential for users to maintain robust security practices, including verifying email attachments and downloads, to mitigate the risk of infection.

1. Download XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .XIAOBA files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware

XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware files:


HELP_SOS.hta
{randomname}.exe


XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .XIAOBA files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .XIAOBA files. Download it here:

Download RakhniDecryptor

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .XIAOBA files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware and removed from your computer, you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually, you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .XIAOBA files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list, choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see a screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose an alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

Download ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. XIAOBA 2.0 Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.

Download MailWasher Pro